Joe Milton III: The Cowboys’ Secret Weapon in Specialized Packages

In the high-stakes world of the NFL, innovation often separates playoff contenders from pretenders. The Dallas Cowboys, under the guidance of offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, may have found a unique edge in their 2025 quarterback room with the addition of Joe Milton III. Acquired in a trade with the New England Patriots, Milton—known for his rocket arm and underrated athleticism—offers a skill set that could be deployed as a “secret weapon” in specialized situations, such as short-yardage packages, without overshadowing franchise quarterback Dak Prescott. Here’s how Schottenheimer might integrate Milton into the Cowboys’ playbook to keep defenses guessing while preserving Prescott’s central role.

Milton’s Unique Physical Profile

At 6’5” and 235 pounds, Milton is a physical specimen. His college tape at Tennessee showcased not only a cannon arm—capable of 70-yard throws—but also surprising agility for his size. During his final season with the Volunteers, Milton averaged 5.2 yards per carry on designed runs, a stat that hints at his potential in specific scenarios. Unlike Prescott, whose mobility is more calculated and pocket-oriented, Milton’s raw power and speed make him ideal for short-yardage situations where a quarterback’s legs can turn a third-and-two into a first down.

In the NFL, teams like the Philadelphia Eagles (with Jalen Hurts in “tush push” plays) and the Baltimore Ravens (with Lamar Jackson’s read-option packages) have thrived by tailoring plays to their quarterbacks’ unique traits. For the Cowboys, Milton could fill a similar niche, offering a change-of-pace option that forces defenses to prepare for an entirely different threat.

The Short-Yardage Package

Imagine this: it’s third-and-one in the red zone, with the Cowboys trailing by a field goal. Prescott lines up under center, but suddenly, Milton jogs onto the field, taking a direct snap in a heavy personnel set. The defense, expecting a traditional handoff to Rico Dowdle, freezes as Milton fakes a dive and sprints around the edge, bulldozing a linebacker for the first down. This is the kind of play Schottenheimer, known for his creative play-calling, could design to exploit Milton’s strengths.

Short-yardage packages are perfect for Milton because they require minimal passing responsibility—mitigating his inexperience—while maximizing his physicality. Plays like quarterback sneaks, power runs, or even read-option looks could keep defenses honest. In 2024, the Cowboys converted just 62% of their third-and-one attempts, ranking 20th in the NFL (per Pro Football Reference). Milton’s inclusion in these scenarios could boost that number, giving Dallas a critical edge in close games.

Schottenheimer’s Balancing Act

The challenge for Schottenheimer lies in integrating Milton without disrupting Prescott’s rhythm or confidence. Prescott, a three-time Pro Bowler and the unquestioned leader of the Cowboys, thrives on consistency. Pulling him for situational plays risks breaking his flow, especially in high-pressure moments. Schottenheimer’s solution could involve using Milton sparingly but strategically—perhaps one or two snaps per game in pre-planned packages.

Historical precedent supports this approach. In 2017, the New Orleans Saints used Taysom Hill as a gadget player alongside Drew Brees, deploying him in wildcat formations and goal-line packages. Hill’s snaps never undermined Brees’ authority but added an unpredictable wrinkle that kept defenses off balance. Similarly, Schottenheimer could limit Milton’s role to specific down-and-distance scenarios, ensuring Prescott remains the focal point.

To maintain harmony, Schottenheimer might also involve Prescott in designing these packages. Prescott’s buy-in would be crucial, and his experience could help refine plays to complement the Cowboys’ broader offensive scheme. For example, a play-action bootleg off a Milton run fake could set up Prescott for a deep shot later, blending both quarterbacks’ strengths seamlessly.

The Ripple Effect on Defenses

Milton’s presence, even in a limited role, forces defensive coordinators to rethink their game plans. Preparing for Prescott’s precision passing and pocket presence is already a tall order. Adding Milton’s threat as a runner means defenses must account for an entirely different playbook. Do they stack the box to stop Milton’s power runs, risking single coverage against CeeDee Lamb? Or do they stay in base personnel, potentially allowing Milton to overpower lighter fronts? This dilemma could create exploitable mismatches elsewhere in the Cowboys’ attack.

Moreover, Milton’s reps in practice would give Dallas’ defense valuable experience against mobile quarterbacks—a boon when facing players like Jalen Hurts or Kyler Murray in the NFC. This dual benefit—offensive innovation and defensive preparation—makes Milton’s role as a secret weapon even more compelling.

Preserving Prescott’s Primacy

One concern is the narrative around Milton’s usage. Media and fans, always eager for a quarterback controversy, might overhype Milton’s contributions, especially if he delivers a highlight-reel play. Schottenheimer and head coach Mike McCarthy must manage this carefully, emphasizing that Milton’s role is complementary, not competitive. Prescott’s public comments welcoming Milton suggest he’s open to this dynamic, but consistent messaging from the coaching staff will be key to avoiding distractions.

Statistically, Prescott’s job is secure. In 2024, he threw for 4,018 yards and 28 touchdowns, earning a 98.2 passer rating (per ESPN). Milton, by contrast, has just 112 career NFL snaps, mostly in mop-up duty with the Patriots. The gap in experience and production ensures Prescott remains QB1, allowing Schottenheimer to experiment with Milton without fear of undermining the team’s foundation.

Looking Ahead

If Schottenheimer successfully integrates Milton into specialized packages, the Cowboys could unlock a new dimension in 2025. A single goal-line touchdown or a clutch third-down conversion by Milton could swing a game, justifying the trade and cementing his value. Beyond immediate results, this approach prepares Milton for a larger role down the line—whether as a long-term backup or a potential trade asset.

For now, Milton’s job is to stay ready and seize his moments. For Schottenheimer, it’s about threading the needle: using Milton’s unique talents to win games without dimming Prescott’s star. If executed well, this secret weapon could help propel Dallas toward the postseason—and maybe even a deep playoff run.